13 Countries Where the McDonald’s Menu Will Totally Shock You

Let me confess something.

I used to think McDonald’s was the same everywhere — Big Mac, fries, maybe a McFlurry.

But then I started traveling. And the golden arches became something totally different.

In the Philippines, I ordered a fried chicken leg with white rice.

In Italy, I had pistachio tiramisu.

And in Japan? I bit into a burger dyed completely black.

That’s when I realized — McDonald’s isn’t just fast food. It’s a window into local culture.

I wrote this because a lot of us solo travelers end up grabbing a quick meal at McDonald’s while exploring. But what if I told you that in some places, that “quick meal” could be rice porridge, shrimp burgers, or a side of poutine?

In this article, I’ll show you 13 countries where McDonald’s menus get seriously weird — and wildly local.

You’ll laugh. You’ll probably cringe. And by the end, you’ll want to try every one.

1. Philippines — McSpaghetti

Yep, spaghetti. At McDonald’s.

And not just any spaghetti — this one’s sweet, topped with a banana ketchup-based sauce and slices of hotdog.

It’s one of the most popular items there. Kids love it. Honestly? I kinda did too.

2. Japan — Squid Ink Burger

It’s black. Like jet black.

The bun, the cheese, even the sauce — all dyed with squid ink. It looks like something from a sci-fi movie, but the taste is surprisingly savory.

Japan also has seasonal menu drops, like teriyaki egg burgers and sakura cherry floats.

3. India — No Beef, No Pork

You won’t find a Big Mac here.

Instead, you get the Chicken Maharaja Mac, spicy veggie McAloo Tikki burgers, and paneer wraps.

McDonald’s in India has totally reimagined fast food to fit local diets and religious customs — and it works.

4. South Korea — Bulgogi Burger

This one’s a local favorite.

It’s made with thin beef patties soaked in sweet soy garlic bulgogi sauce, then stacked with lettuce and mayo.

Think barbecue meets burger — with zero ketchup in sight.

5. Italy — Parmigiano and Tiramisu

Italian McDonald’s doesn’t mess around.

They serve Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese as a menu item. You can grab a wedge of it, paired with a salad.

And for dessert? Tiramisu in a cute little cup. Chef’s kiss.

6. Canada — Poutine

If you thought fries couldn’t get better, Canada proved you wrong.

They top McDonald’s fries with cheese curds and hot gravy — a legit poutine, straight from the counter.

It’s greasy, gooey, and absolutely delicious after a long hike.

7. Thailand — McKao Kaprao

You get stir-fried basil chicken with rice and a fried egg — all boxed up McDonald’s style.

In Thailand, rice dishes are a staple at the chain. It feels like home cooking, but from a drive-thru.

They even serve spicy dipping sauces on the side.

8. Hong Kong — Breakfast with Noodles

Forget the McMuffin.

In Hong Kong, people start their day with hot bowls of noodle soup, topped with sausage patties and fried eggs.

I once had one before a flight. It was hearty, peppery, and woke me up faster than coffee.

9. Egypt — McFalafel

Breakfast here includes falafel, pita bread, and even a side of fava beans (foul medames).

McDonald’s Egypt combines fast food with traditional morning staples — and somehow nails it.

It’s also incredibly affordable.

10. Sweden — Vegan McVegan Burger

McDonald’s Sweden introduced the McVegan — a soy-based patty with vegan sauce and toppings.

It tastes… real. Like a regular burger. But it’s 100% plant-based.

They also serve cold potato salad and beetroot slaw. IKEA would approve.

11. Malaysia — Durian McFlurry

If you’ve never tried durian, it smells like gym socks but tastes like sweet garlic pudding.

Now imagine that blended into ice cream. That’s the Durian McFlurry — infamous but oddly addictive.

Only the brave order it. I did. Regret came later.

12. Portugal — Caldo Verde and Soup

In Portuguese McDonald’s, you can sit down with a tray and order a bowl of traditional green soup — Caldo Verde.

It’s made with kale, potatoes, and chorizo slices.

You eat it with bread on the side, and yes, it comes with a paper cup of Coke.

13. China — Taro Pie

Skip the apple pie — here, it’s all about taro.

The crust is crispy, the filling is purple and creamy, and it’s way less sugary than you’d expect.

China also has bubble tea on the menu in some spots.

Final Thoughts

McDonald’s might look familiar from the outside, but step in, and it’s a whole new world.

What shocked me most wasn’t the food. It was how each country used the same brand to reflect something totally their own.

That’s what makes it so fascinating as a traveler.

You’re not just grabbing a quick bite. You’re tasting culture in a wrapper.

So next time you’re abroad, don’t skip the McDonald’s. Walk in with an open mind — and maybe an empty stomach.

The fries stay the same. But the rest? Wild.